We are thankful for:

*The Grand Forks community: Year after year we receive a great amount of support from members of the community. Without the generous donations made through workplace and Community Builders campaigns, as well as through our direct service programs ‘Undies Sundays’ and ‘Toys for Tots,’ we would not be able to continue working to advance the common good.

*Our volunteers: Every year, dozens of volunteers assist us in preparing for and running our campaign. Without their generous donation of time and energy, our small staff would not be able to run a successful campaign. Volunteers help keep costs low so that we may channel more funds into the community.

*Our partner agencies: The agencies we fund provide much needed relief to individuals and families in need in the community. They offer food, clothing, and shelter, as well as a variety of service and support programs. The work done by these agencies has a great impact on the Grand Forks community and makes life a little easier for those who may be struggling.

*Area businesses: Dozens of businesses support United Way by conducting workplace campaigns to allow employees to donate to us and our partner agencies.

Every year, a handful of businesses step up to the plate and decide to be a Campaign Pacesetter. This year’s Pacesetters were: Canad Inns Destination Center, Greater Grand Forks Senior Center, Nodak Rural Electric, One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, Thompson Insurance, and United Valley Bank. Together, the 2011 Pacesetters increased contributions 47% and raised $15,894 for United Way. 

We also extend a warm thank you to Xcel Energy for sponsoring our 2011 Million Dollar Mixer.

And last, but not least,

*Our Board of Directors: The local business professionals who sit on our Board of Directors, Campaign Cabinet, and Executive Council are an integral part of our organization. They not only assist us in setting goals for the future, they also work to help us achieve those goals by raising awareness for United Way and supporting the campaign any way they can. They also sit on allocation committees and on our Education, Income & Health task forces.

Judi Paukert, Manager of Community Relations at Xcel Energy, served as our 2011 Campaign Chair and did a wonderful job! We are very thankful for the hard work and dedication Judi put into this year’s fundraising campaign. She assisted with CEO meetings, attended events, and gave dozens of presentations on behalf of United Way.

The staff of the United Way of Grand Forks, East Grand Forks & Area thanks you for your continued support of our organization and we wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday.